Semiotics [EINCB360]
- 5 credits
- 30h+15h
- 2nd quarter
Objectives
The objective of the course is to bring the students to master the main theoretical concepts related to the three semiotic approaches presented. It also aims to help them acquire an analytical approach, mobilizing the concepts discussed, in order to understand how the meaning of different communicational devices is formed.
Content
The theoretical content of the course addresses three main semiological approaches: the structural approach, the pragmatic approach and the cognitive approach. In order to give the theoretical concepts discussed a concrete anchor, the course proposes to put the students in project. In articulation with the course of Communication of company, the students are brought to answer a request of a sponsor (a "customer") and to implement a step of design and analysis of devices of communication by mobilizing the matter seen in the course.
Table of contents
The three main semiotic approaches form the theoretical framework of the course:
1) Structural approach
a. The fundamental model: general linguistics
b. To a structural semiology
2) Pragmatic approach
a. Enunciation
b. Deictic context
c. Relational contexte
3) Cognitive approach
a. The sign-thinking
b. Understanding from signs
- The Relevance Theory
- The Conceptual Metaphor Theory
- The Conceptual Blending Theory
Teaching methods
The pedagogical set-up of the course includes sessions on theoretical content, workshop sessions in small groups, independent work by the students and coaching in small groups. It consists of a theoretical part and a practical part. Theoretical part: the material is presented (theory and analysis of examples) and discussed in group sessions. Practical part: the students will work on a project during three workshops to design a communication device that aims to meet the demand of an external sponsor (group work). Participation in the three workshop sessions and in the group work presentation session at the end of the course (jury) is compulsory. It is also recommended that students work on their project collaboratively outside of the workshops using the digital tools at their disposal. As course materials, students have access to the syllabus (course slides) and reference books. Texts are also made available to them.
Evaluations
On the one hand, the course is evaluated by means of an individual oral examination in session. It concerns both the mastery of the theoretical part and the ability to analyse the communication device produced by the students, on the basis of the analysis grids provided during the course. On the other hand, the quality of this communication device (taking into account the instructions given in each workshop and the final production) and its presentation to the jury is assessed collectively (group work). The participation of the students in the three workshops and in the group work presentation session (jury) is taken into account in the evaluation. In case of absence, a justification is required.
Recommended readings
- Verhaegen Philippe, Signe et communication, Brussels, De Boeck, 2010 - Meunier Jean-Pierre & Peraya Daniel, Introduction aux théories de la communication, Brussels, De Boeck, 3rd edition, 2010 - Lakoff George & Johnson Mark, Metaphors in Everyday Life, Paris, Les Editions de Minuit, (translated from the American by M. de Fornel), 1985 - Fauconnier Gilles & Turner Mark, The way we think. Conceptual blending and the mind's hidden complexities, Basic Books, 2002
Language of instruction
French / FrançaisLocation for course
NAMUROrganizer
Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales et de gestionRue de Bruxelles, 61
5000 NAMUR
Degree of Reference
Undergraduate Degree| Block | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelier en information et communication | 3 | 5 |
